US water systems under cyber attack
Dozens of water plants across the US have reported cyberattacks since the beginning of summer, and authorities point to Iran as the likely culprit. But
Dozens of water plants across the US have reported cyberattacks since the beginning of summer, and authorities point to Iran as the likely culprit. But it’s also raised questions about why it was so easy for hackers to break into critical infrastructure, and who’s to blame for the lax security. The attacks raised alarm because they targeted systems that millions of Americans depend on every day. The US has some 152,000 public drinking water systems and more than 16,000 wastewater treatment facilities.
Cynthia Kaiser is a former FBI deputy director and now heads Halcyon Ransomware Research Center. Kaiser told DW that Iran has the strongest motive, and had previously attempted to hack US water systems. Joshua Corman was formerly chief strategist at the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and now runs I Am The Cavalry, which advocates for better security for connected infrastructure. Corman told DW an attack on water systems could bring the country to a standstill, as it affects everything from hospitals to data centers.
00:00 Water plants across the US report cyber attacks 01:21 How the US threatened to attack Iran’s water supplies 01:38 Why do authorities believe Iran was behind the attacks? 2:38 Easy access: Why critical infrastructure remains vulnerable 3:47 Why small towns are easier targets for cyberattacks 4:33 No physical damage, but serious security concerns 5:10 Why water security is so critical 6:18 Who’s to blame for the lack of security?
7:25 A global threat: Why the US isn't the only country at risk 8:15 How local utilities can strengthen cybersecurity defenses For more news go to Follow DW on social media ► ►TikTok ► ► Für Videos in deutscher Sprache besuchen Sie Subscribe
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